Gozo is the island of the three hills, but there are no hills without valleys. A journey through Gozo can only be done by exploring and absorbing the true beauty of valleys. If you’re keen on walking holidays in Malta and Gozo, you cannot miss out on the valleys of Gozo. Once you take a peek, you will be captivated by country paths meandering beside the terraced fields or through overgrown nature, rugged or smooth cliff faces and spanning over landscapes and vistas that command attention, especially when the view opens onto the sea.
Here’s a list of Gozo’s top ten valleys, which also happen to be the perfect Gozo walking trails.
Mġarr ix-Xini Valley
This valley on the southeastern side of the island of Gozo is one of the most picturesque. Starting as a deep ravine between the villages of Ta’ Sannat and Xewkija, the valley winds its way to the sea with dramatic scenery culminating in a unique view of the channel between the islands, the island of Comino, framed by the coastal tower of the bay. Apart from being one favourite Gozo walking trail, this valley offers plenty of abseiling adventure opportunities. While swimming and snorkelling are a must in summer, the crystal-clear blue waters are also a beacon for diving enthusiasts.
Marsalforn Valley
One of Gozo’s fertile valleys on the island’s northern side is Marsalforn Valley. Hiking in the area during the colder months will provide plenty of photographic opportunities. It is also the perfect area for birdwatching as migratory birds often stop here for a rest. Naturalists following the watercourse of the valley will appreciate the abundance of local flora, fauna, tree species and bird calls.
Ramla Valley
Exploring the Ramla Bay Valley is a feast for the eyes and definitely of the Gozo walks not to be missed. Cradled between the hilltop villages of Xagħra and Nadur, the Ramla Bay Valley should be considered a major Gozo hiking and biking trail. This U-shaped basin is a three-kilometres-long watercourse fed by several secondary tributaries along its way. Vineyards and olive grove estates are part of the Ramla Bay Valley scenery. The valley’s delta ends up on the red dunes of Ramla Bay.
Xlendi Valley
Best viewed from along the ridge, the valley of Xlendi is a deep gorge lush with year-round vegetation. The dense growth of reeds in some regions of the valley makes it relatively inaccessible for the average hiker, but climbers and abseiling enthusiasts will enjoy scaling the zone. If you prefer something more tranquil and peaceful, stop at the entry point to this valley, which is located on the narrow road that winds down from Munxar. Plein air painting settings abound, and nature lovers will be glad to know that this is one of the rare natural habitats of the endemic land crab.
Kantra Valley
Another valley lies close to the Xlendi Valley. The smaller valley of Kantra is a step away from Xlendi’s coastal tower. Thriving with flora and fauna, the Kantra valley, whose name evokes the Spanish-Sicilian era, leads to a small mesmerising inlet with vivid turquoise colours. The old stone bridge built by the Knights of St. John allows hikers to cross the valley. The Knights also hacked the steps out of the white rocks on both sides of the gorge as they needed a path to reach the Xlendi coastal tower. Once you have explored the valley, extend your hiking to the coastal area next to the tower, and you’ll stumble upon another of Gozo’s walking trails.
Wied l-Għasri Valley
Winding its way below Għammar Hill, the valley of Għasri is a narrow ravine leading to what many consider Gozo’s magical fjord. High cliffs on both sides of Wied il-Għasri have protected the area, keeping it pristine, and you can only go down to the pebbly secluded beach after you climb down a steep staircase hewed out of the rock. Perfect on most days for swimming, snorkelling and diving, this unique canyon offers a spectacle of nature’s savage power on windy and stormy days.
Wied il-Mielaħ
Gozo hiking cannot be complete without checking out Wied il-Mielaħ, which literally means the Salty Valley. Wied il-Mielaħ is accessed via the countryside road from Għarb or the cliff-edge route through Għasri. Wied il-Mielaħ is mainly known for the limestone natural arch formed at the valley’s end. Recent renovations have made the site more accessible, and the area is often a hot spot for photographers and adventure seekers.
San Blas Valley
San Blas Valley is a farmers’ valley near the village of Nadur. The terraced fields, many of which are sheltered with reed fencing, along the valley’s sides are known for the orchards and organic fresh produce. A narrow but steep country road leads you to the red sandy San Blas beach. This Gozo hike will delight nature lovers as it is like opening up a treasure trove of wild plants and flowers along with the songs of the birds that thrive there.
Daħlet Qorrot Valley
Daħlet Qorrot is a bay facing the east, and descending the valley starts in Nadur. This valley is one of several in the area, and the Daħlet Qorrot Valley ends up in the rocky San Filep Bay and Daħlet Qorrot beach. Considered one of Gozo’s secret beaches, San Filep Bay is only accessible via a footpath that winds down along a slope overgrown with bushes. Daħlet Qorrot Bay is a typical inlet with boathouses carved from the rock.
Lunzjata Valley
If you love history layered upon nature, then you cannot ignore the fairytale-like setting of Lunzjata Valley. A green heart in the island’s centre, Lunzjata Valley, is two steps away from Victoria. The grand arch scene at the entrance paves the way for the idyllic setting of the quaint chapel tucked into the rocks. Lunzjata is a joy to discover, and families with little children can enjoy the peace here. The trail around the valley that leads to the fountain where farmers used to wash their produce is easy to navigate, even with a stroller.
Gozo’s charms lie not only in its history and culture but also in what nature has bestowed. The valleys of Gozo will be rewarding if you’re planning walking holidays in Malta and Gozo. While many of these Gozo valleys are part of Gozo walking trails, cycling and abseiling are other ways of exploring Gozo’s valleys. Don’t forget that, in some cases, you can get around via Segway and Tuk-tuk tours.
Walking holidays on the island of Gozo will ensure that you take the time to absorb the thrill of adventure, the magical inspiration and the sound of silence that are part of Gozo’s valleys vibe.
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